Jeremy Emmett, chairman of Barston Parish Council, made a deputation at the latest full Solihull Council meeting on April 14, pleading for the historic Barston Bridge to remain open to traffic. The bridge, which dates back to 1859 and carries Barston Lane over the River Blythe, is used by more than 1,000 vehicles daily. Its future has been in doubt due to safety concerns, as first reported by the Local Democracy Reporting Service last year.
Options and Costs
The council's options are to replace the bridge with a structure capable of full highway loading at 40 tonnes capacity, costing £2 million, or close it to traffic, leaving it accessible only to pedestrians and cyclists. A consultation period ended in February, and a campaign has been gathering pace, including a rolling convoy protest highlighting the impact of a potential closure.
Community Concerns
Emmett told councillors: "Barston Bridge is not just simply a piece of infrastructure it is a vital link. For many years it has served residents, farmers and local businesses effectively. It is a functioning asset that continues to play a crucial role in our local network. Closing this bridge does not solve a problem, it creates several more. The reality is vehicles will be pushed onto already busy routes in Knowle and Hampton."
He added: "We understand there are financial pressures but what we are asking for is a balanced and transparent approach. Where is the exploration of alternatives, the clear long term plan? Why does the conversation seem to move so quickly towards closure without that work being done? This bridge has served us for generations – with sensible management it can continue to do so. Please listen to the community."
Council Response
Councillor Ken Hawkins, cabinet portfolio holder for environment and infrastructure, responded: "The principle is we want the bridge to stay open. That is the default position. We are clearly aware of the strength of the feeling of the parish council and the local community. No decision has been made yet. We will be requesting external funding if we can go down that route to keep that bridge open."
He added that the next step would be for the consultation outcome to be presented to a stronger communities and neighbourhood services scrutiny board meeting early in the new municipal year, following the local elections.
